Acupuncture for Back Pain
Acupuncture for Back Pain
Acupuncture for back pain can provide long-lasting relief for lower back pain, according to a recent U.K. study.
When patients were treated with 10 sessions of acupuncture over the course of three months, they reported greatly reduced pain in the lower and mid backs. Patients were still reaping the benefits of reduced pain at a 24-month follow-up session with a physician.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture for back pain is a type of treatment that includes placing very thin needles into specific back pain acupuncture points on the body. It comes from traditional Chinese medicine and is based on the idea that life energy, or “qi,” flows through the body along pathways. When this flow is blocked or unbalanced, it may lead to pain or other health issues.
In modern practice, acupuncture is used to help with numerous things like back pain, headaches, stress, and nausea, among others. Some people find it relaxing. Some include it in a broader treatment plan. Note that results vary from person to person.
How Can Acupuncture Help with Back Pain?
Acupuncture for lower back pain can be used as a way to manage back pain by targeting specific points on the body with thin needles. These points are believed to affect the body’s energy flow and nervous system. The idea is that when the needles are placed in just the right spots, they can help release chemicals like endorphins that block pain signals and help the body relax.
For back pain, the acupuncturist usually focuses on areas related to the spine and muscles. The treatment aims to reduce tension, improve blood circulation, and support the body’s natural healing.Some points are located near the pain, while others—though distant—are selected based on how the nervous system and energy pathways are connected.
It may also help with other problems related to back pain, like stress, poor sleep, or muscle tightness.
Research on Acupuncture for Lower Back Pain
Some research has found that acupuncture treatment for back pain may help reduce pain intensity, improve a person’s ability to manage daily tasks, and even reduce the need for pain medication. However, while it may help with symptoms, it hasn’t been clearly linked to improvements in how the lower back itself functions.
A review from 2021 looked at several high-quality trials and found modest benefits for people with acute lower back pain. For chronic pain, back acupuncture is more promising and is sometimes recommended as an early treatment option. Even so, differences in how studies are done make it hard to draw conclusions.
Scientists are still learning exactly how acupuncture for chronic back pain works. One idea is that it helps the body release natural painkiller chemicals like endorphins. It may also affect how the nervous system processes pain or stimulate certain points that send helpful signals to the brain and spine.
Some large-scale studies even found that people with chronic pain who received acupuncture reported noticeable improvements – often more than those who received fake or no treatment.
Acupuncture Points That Relieve Back Pain
Acupuncture for back pain relief focuses on specific points on the body that are believed to influence how the nervous system responds to pain. These points are chosen based on the type and location of your pain, like in the lower back, upper back, or along the spine. A trained practitioner selects these areas to help reduce tension, improve blood circulation, and support the body’s natural healing. Below are some of the common acupuncture points used to address different types of back pain.
Lower Back Acupuncture Points
Acupuncturists often target the points near the lower spine – about two to four fingers-widths away from the vertebrae at waist level – because they help ease tension and improve blood circulation in the lumbar area. Other locations include points near the hip, knee, and even below the navel, which may help support the body’s natural pain relief system. For acute back pain, some therapists may use specific points like GV‑26 (also called Renzhong), which have shown short-term pain relief benefits with minimal risk.
Upper Back Acupuncture Points
Acupuncturists often focus on the Gallbladder 21 area, which is located atop the shoulder near the neck, and is known for relieving neck and upper-back tension. Points along the Governing Vessel, especially at the base of the neck, are chosen to ease stiffness and support relaxation in the spine. Some practitioners also trigger nearby points on the shoulder blade that ease muscle knots and improve movement in the upper back and shoulders.
Chronic Back Acupuncture Points
Practitioners often treat the Bladder 23 (BL 23) point located on either side of the lower spine, as it’s believed to affect kidney energy and lumbar support. They also target Bladder 40 (BL 40) behind the knee, sometimes called the “command point” for the lower back, which may help reduce stiffness and muscle tension. Along the spine itself, Governing Vessel 3 (GV 3) at the mid-lower back is a popular choice to treat pain and sciatica. Besides that, points like Gallbladder 34 (GB 34) below the knee and Stomach 36 (ST 36) on the lower leg can support overall pain relief.
Pulled Back Muscle
Practitioners often work with Bladder 23 (BL 23) and Bladder 47 (BL 47), both found next to the lower spine, as these can help ease muscle strain and improve blood circulation in this treatment area. They may also use BL 53/BL 54, located behind the knee, to help relax tight muscles and release tension . Points like Stomach 36 (ST 36) on the leg are sometimes added to boost overall healing, balance the nerves, and even treat inflammation.
Nerve Pain in Back (Sciatica)
Many acupuncturists focus on Bladder 23 and Bladder 40. BL 23 is located near the lower spine to help ease lumbar tension and BL 40 is behind the knee to ease stiffness and improve function. They also often use Bladder 54 on the buttock, and Gallbladder 30 near the hip – both considered useful for sciatic relief . A less-known but effective option is Ling Gu on the hand, which can help reduce sciatic pain and associated discomfort.
Spine Pain
When dealing with spine pain, acupuncturists often choose points that lie along the central energy channel running down the back, like Governing Vessel 3 (GV 3) and Governing Vessel 4 (GV 4) found midway along the spine. They also use Bladder 23 (BL 23) near the lower back to support spinal function, and Bladder 40 (BL 40) behind the knee to ease tension and boost blood circulation. Other points like Bladder 60 (BL 60) near the ankle and Stomach 36 (ST 36) below the knee may also be used to treat inflammation, balance energy, and gently help the nervous system reset.
Lower Back Spasms
When dealing with sudden lower back spasms, acupuncturists usually choose a mix of both local and distant points to help calm tight muscles and the nervous system. Popular spasm spots include Bladder 23 (BL 23) near the lower spine and Bladder 40 (BL 40) behind the knee, both helpful for easing muscular tension and increasing blood flow. They may also stimulate Governing Vessel 3 (GV 3) along the spine to help with spinal alignment. Additionally, lighter points like Conception Vessel 6 (CV 6) just below the navel or Large Intestine 4 (LI 4) on the hand may also be used to relax the nervous system and reduce spasm intensity.
Acupuncture Techniques for Back Pain Relief
Different acupuncture techniques are used to address back pain, each offering something of its own:
- Traditional Needle Insertion. Thin, yet fine and sterile needles are placed in specific points along the spine, legs, or arms to stimulate the nervous system, improve blood circulation, and trigger the release of natural painkilling chemicals like endorphins.
- Electroacupuncture. After needle placement, a gentle electric current is applied to improve stimulation, providing faster and stronger relief in certain cases.
- Dry Needling (A‑shi Technique). By targeting tight muscle knots, this technique uses needles inserted directly into trigger points to ease tension and improve function.
- Master-Couple Point Method (like Dai Mai). This strategy opens specific energy channels – like the Dai Mai – by using paired points (such as GB 41 and SJ 5) to free up stagnation and ease pain along the spine.
- Scalp or Auricular Acupuncture. Sometimes acupuncture is done on the scalp or ear to influence pain signals in the back without targeting the area directly.
Most Notable Acupuncture Benefits for Back Pain
Acupuncture offers a lot of potential benefits for individuals dealing with back pain, including:
- Pain Relief. Many people experience a noticeable decrease in back pain after acupuncture for spine problems, feeling more comfortable within just a few sessions.
- Eases Muscle Tension. The treatment can help loosen tight muscles, especially in the lower back and shoulders, making movement easier.
- Improved Blood Circulation. Acupuncture for back pain relief may boost blood flow to the affected area, helping muscles and tissues heal more effectively.
- Lower Stress Levels. Because it helps with relaxation, acupuncture for spine pain may also reduce stress. Stress can contribute to muscle tightness and back pain.
- Fewer Side Effects Than Medications. Unlike painkillers, acupuncture on back comes with minimal side effects and no risk of dependency.
- Better Mobility. Some patients find they can move more freely and with less stiffness after regular acupuncture for upper back pain sessions.
- Support for Chronic Conditions. It’s often used as a long-term support option for people with ongoing or recurring back issues.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session for Back Pain
An acupuncture therapy for lower back pain sessions for back pain usually begins with a health check and detailed evaluation. The practitioner may ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any medical conditions or medications. They might also take a quick look at the area of pain to decide where to place the needles.
You’ll either sit or lie down depending on where the pain is. The acupuncturist will then carefully insert very thin, sterile needles into specific points on your body. These needles usually go just under the skin or slightly deeper into the muscle, and they stay in place for several minutes – sometimes up to half an hour.
The treatment isn’t meant to hurt, but you might feel a dull ache, warmth, or tingling where the needles go in. After the session, you could feel relaxed, energized, or even a little tired. Some people notice immediate relief, while others need a few sessions to see results. Sessions usually last anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes.
Who Can Benefit from Acupuncture Therapy for Back Pain?
Acupuncture for low back pain may be helpful for a lot of people dealing with back pain. Those with chronic lower or upper back issues may find it useful as part of a larger pain management plan. It’s also sometimes used by people recovering from injuries or surgery, especially when other treatments haven’t worked well. People with nerve-related issues like sciatica might try acupuncture to help ease pressure and reduce discomfort. Results vary, but many people choose acupuncture because it’s low-risk and doesn’t involve medication. It can be a good option for those looking for a more natural way to manage pain.
Are There Any Side Effects of Acupuncture for Back Pain?
Acupuncture help with back pain is generally safe when performed by a trained professional graduated from a reputable, yet some mild and temporary side effects can happen. These may include:
- Mild pain, bruising, or slight bleeding where the needle was inserted.
- Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint during or after the session.
- Drowsiness or feeling unusually tired.
- Nausea or a queasy stomach after treatment.
- Rare but serious risks like infection or organ puncture, especially if needles aren’t used properly.
- People with bleeding disorders, metal allergies, or infections near the treatment area should talk to their doctor first.
- Pregnant women should inform their practitioner, as some acupuncture points are not safe during pregnancy.
Acupuncture for Back Pain in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Clifton, NJ
Back pain acupuncture provides a gentle, low-risk help with managing back pain, caused by muscle tension, nerve issues, or chronic discomfort. While it may not work the same way for everyone, many people find relief through regular sessions, with fewer side effects than traditional pain treatments.
At Pulse Acupuncture, located in Clifton, NJ, and Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Marina Doktorman, L.Ac., provides safe and effective acupuncture for back pain, based on your unique health needs. Besides this, our acupuncture center also offers options like TuiNa massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, shiatsu massage, prenatal massage, and Thai massage. These treatments can work together to effectively ease pain, help with recovery, and make you feel better overall. For those who need some extra support, acupuncture for addictions is also available.
Pulse Acupuncture is here to help you using genuine, professional care and proven methods.
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Marina Doktorman, M.S., L.Ac., is an experienced acupuncturist who obtained her Masters of Acupuncture from the Tri-State College of Acupuncture in New York City in 2001. During her studies, she focused on Chinese Herbology, a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that utilizes herbs to complement acupuncture treatments. Marina is licensed in both New York (NY) and New Jersey (NJ) and holds a Diplomate of Acupuncture from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), indicating her expertise in the field.
Why Pulse Acupuncture?
Experience
Marina Doktorman, L.Ac. has over 20 years of clinical experience.
RELAXATION
At Pulse Acupuncture, we aim to cultivate a spa-like environment.
Comfort
All of our needles are of the highest quality for painless insertion.
Patient Reviews
Marina is very accommodating, kind, and attentive, and her staff is a pleasure to deal with. I highly recommend Pulse.
Acupuncture has truly changed my life and has helped me in ways I didn’t even know were possible.
I started doing acupuncture to balance my hormones after 2 years of unsuccessful fertility treatments. When I started seeing Marina, my periods were starting to be regular and I was dealing with a few different symptoms which we started treating right away (constipation, random headaches, body aches)… in the last 3 years I have not been sick (no flu, have never tested positive for COVID) - Marina even treated me for allergies more than a year ago during an allergy episode in changing seasons.
Also want to mention Larissa as I started seeing her in Marina’s beautiful office and she’s also contributed to my wellness journey. Acupuncture is my favorite wellness practice, I see them regularly and have never felt better. I sometimes just tell them whatever I’m thinking/feeling knowing they will stick some needles in different places of my body and I come out floating and feeling so relaxed.
Excellent service- great results- highly recommended ~!
Marina is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also very calming and has great bedside manners. If you're looking for a fantastic acupuncturist I can't recommend her enough!!
After 10 minutes of the procedure, you get into a different reality. Marina is knowledgeable, answers all the questions. After the procedure, the skin of the face glows, the body becomes lighter by a couple of pounds. I've been looking for such a procedure and state of mind for a long time.
I am beyond grateful to Marina, because after trying so many things, I almost lost hope. highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone seeking relief from pain or other health concerns.
The acupuncture sessions themselves are incredibly relaxing and therapeutic. Marina's gentle touch and precise needle placement always leave me feeling calm and rejuvenated. She also incorporates other techniques, such as cupping, which have been very beneficial for my overall health and wellbeing.
In addition to her skill as an acupuncturist, Marina is also a wonderful person to work with. She is warm, friendly, and genuinely cares about her clients' wellbeing. I always leave our sessions feeling refreshed and uplifted, both physically and mentally.
Overall, I highly recommend Pulse Acupuncture and Marina for anyone looking for high-quality acupuncture and personalized care. Thank you, Marina, for your exceptional service and dedication to helping others achieve optimal health!
Acupuncture for Back Pain - FAQ
What is Acupuncture for Back Pain?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. For back pain, acupuncture aims to target areas where energy (Qi) is blocked, restoring balance and providing relief.
Does Acupuncture Help With Back Pain?
How Does Acupuncture Relieve Back Pain?
Acupuncture helps relieve back pain by stimulating the nervous system, which triggers the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers). It also improves blood flow to the muscles, tissues, and joints, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. The goal is to address the root causes of the pain, such as muscle tension, nerve compression, or poor posture.
Is Acupuncture Safe for Back Pain?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed acupuncturist. The needles used are very thin, and the process is minimally invasive. Most people experience little to no discomfort. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
Contact us
Acupuncture therapy at Pulse Acupuncture Practice, at Clifton, NJ and Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NYC offers unique combination of various cupuncture types for healing on all levels: emotional, spiritual and physical by integrating ancient wisdom of energy healing with modern acupuncture techniques.